[inner monologue] Hmm... I feel as if this person is very intelligent. He sees my words as "monotonous", and he's right. Everything I say is as such, to minimize any outliers in occurrences. Not many people are able to see through that. When they do, I have to pretend to act oblivious, so they underestimate me. If someone as smart as this person continues to see my words for what they truly are, the world may never be able to move on. As long as I think through everything I say, I will be able to control this conversation and lead this person in the right direction. I will be disappointed if he doesn't end up buying a meal, but it's fine. He needs to see fish as something desirable, and if I give him two free meals, it will condition him into expecting them for free always. While I don't need to be paid, in this case, it's necessary for a long-term commitment.
Now, how about my response? He seems to be disappointed that I didn't ask how he was doing. His injury was irrelevant, but to him it mattered. Therefore I must find an excuse for not noticing it. If I say I didn't recognize him, that should be believable. His face wasn't visible for very long, and it was dark out. There's also the matter of Sam—it's true that he is here regularly, but him not showing up doesn't mean I'd assume something's wrong. That seems illogical, even from the perspective of someone ignorant. Therefore, I will mention that I did not know about this. I should also express concern here—people are often worried when someone else is in danger, even someone they don't know very well. I have no idea why, but it will be a useful inclusion to make myself seem inconspicuous.
"I'm sorry, I didn't recognize you from before. It won't happen again. And I wasn't aware Sam was missing. I hope he is found soon."